Species Profile
Species Library

Rosy Loach

Accuracy: Verified
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This profile has completed research review. Source-backed care information is shown below. Final publication checks are still pending.
Species profile

Rosy Loach

Physoschistura mango
Peaceful Moderate care 60 L minimum aquarium 2.5–3.5 cm adult size Bottom–mid Minimum group: 8

About this species

General notes for hobby use.

Previously circulated under informal rosy-loach names; the formal species Physoschistura mango is now available for this aquarium fish.

Water parameters

Suggested general range for long-term care.

Temperature 18–26 °C
pH 6–7.5
GH 3–15 dGH
KH Not yet documented
Flow preference Low–moderate
Data confidence Verified

Behaviour

General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.

Minimum group size Minimum group: 8
Tank zone Bottom–mid
Territory level None
Predation risk Tiny fry
Bioload factor 0.5
Active, peaceful and social. Keep a proper group; confidence and natural behaviour are much better than in pairs or trios.

Compatibility flags

Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.

Fin nipper No
Plant safe Yes
Shrimp safe Yes
Snail safe Yes
Cave breeder No
Digs substrate No
Jump risk Yes

Natural history & care

Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.

Lifespan Not yet documented
Diet type Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume 60 L
Minimum footprint 60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name Physoschistura mango
Alternative names Rosy Loach, Yunnanilus sp. 'Rosy' (historic trade name), Petruichthys sp. rosy (historic)
Native range
Myanmar, Ayeyarwady drainage.
Natural habitat
Shallow, clear, plant-rich waters. In captivity use a mature planted tank with fine substrate, leaf litter or low cover, gentle-to-moderate movement and good oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Micro-predator/omnivore. Offer small quality dry foods with regular Artemia, daphnia, cyclops and other suitably sized live/frozen foods.

Breeding & sexing

Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.

Sexing
Mature males are typically more intensely orange-red; females are fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Can spawn in planted aquaria; tiny eggs/fry are vulnerable to adults and filtration. Dense fine-leaved plants or spawning media improve fry survival.